Assistant CEO, External Operations

CAREER DESCRIPTION

ASSISTANT CEO, EXTERNAL OPERATIONS

Open to the Public

The application period will close on March 16, 2026. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply immediately.

OCERS offers a competitive benefits package, a defined benefit pension plan that has reciprocity with the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS), and a deferred compensation 457 plan. OCERS offers up to an annual $10,000 Educational and Professional Reimbursement, a $4,500 taxable optional benefit plan, annual leave, and a flexible/hybrid work schedule.

Recruitment Timeline (subject to change):

March 16, 2026 - Application period closes

March 24, 2026 - Candidates invited to the next stage will receive an invitation to complete a self-recorded Spark Hire video interview

April 7, 2026 - Candidates advancing to the next stage will receive an invitation to complete a Written Assignment

April 21 or April 30, 2026 - Tentative panel interview dates for top candidates

DESCRIPTION:
The Orange County Employees Retirement System (OCERS) invites you to join our team! We are now accepting online applications to fill the position of Assistant CEO, External Operations.

WHO WE ARE:
Established in 1945, the Orange County Employees Retirement System (OCERS) provides retirement, death, disability, and cost-of-living benefits to retirees of the County of Orange and certain County districts. Serving approximately 55,000 members, OCERS is governed by a ten-member Board of Retirement that is responsible for managing a $28 billion dollar fund. For more information about OCERS, please click here .

Mission

OCERS' mission is to provide secure retirement and disability benefits with the highest standards of excellence.

Vision
OCERS' vision is to be a trusted partner providing premier pension administration, distinguished by consistent, quality member experiences and prudent financial stewardship.

Values

• Open and Transparent
• Commitment to Superior Service
• Engaged and Dedicated Workforce
• Reliable and Accurate
• Secure and Sustainable

THE OPPORTUNITY:
The Assistant CEO, External Operations is an at-will senior executive leadership position reporting directly to the Deputy CEO. This role oversees OCERS External Operations, including the Member Services and Disability departments. The primary responsibility of this position is to ensure the accurate collection and retention of employment data and related contributions from thirteen participating plan employers and the timely and accurate payment of retirement and disability benefits to our members.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:
OCERS senior executives are expected to uphold the values of accountability, member and participating employer focus, and system efficiency. They are responsible for administering the Board of Retirement's policies and regulations in accordance with the County Employees Retirement Law of 1937. Additionally, they provide effective and ethical leadership to the OCERS management team and professional staff and are accountable for developing strategies and goals that support OCERS' mission and key business objectives.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

Include but are not limited to the following in cooperation with the Deputy CEO:

• Guide the strategic direction of OCERS External Operations. Provide strategic, technical, and operational leadership while also leveraging modern technologies to achieve the goals and objectives outlined in OCERS’ Strategic and Business Plan, with the support of the senior executive team.

• Build and nurture a positive work environment and foster a culture of collaboration, accountability and continuous improvement. Boost employee morale, maximize performance, and consistently deliver the highest level of internal and external customer service.
• Champion innovation, process improvement, data-driven decision-making and modernizing workflows through automation, AI and other digital tools.
• Provide policy analysis and recommendations on all aspects of OCERS operations. Propose policy revisions and develop changes in organization, staffing, workflows, and management to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of OCERS.
• Develop administrative policy recommendations relating to all facets of public pension plan administration to improve member services and to achieve business efficiencies.
• Monitor and evaluate changes in legislative or regulatory requirements and develop and oversee procedures to ensure compliance while identifying opportunities that may benefit OCERS.
• Monitor the pension industry to implement best practices and lead the organization’s continuous improvement initiative, capturing and identifying new strategies, technologies, and trends.
• Oversee the enterprise-wide framework for operational and customer service performance at OCERS, ensuring accountability, improvement, and transparency. Establish best-in-class performance measures and assume responsibility for achieving results.
• Ensure reporting and information flow to stakeholders is timely, accurate, relevant and tailored to their needs to strengthen collaboration and partnership.
• Prepare comprehensive cost projections, summaries, reports, and recommendations. Manage annual divisional budget and operate within established funding levels.
• Oversee labor relations within the division and ensure all team members can collaborate to best serve our members. Provide leadership and mentorship to managers and team members, in the recruitment and development of a diverse, high-performing, customer service-oriented workforce.
• Ensure organizational continuity, including succession planning preparedness and continuous improvement. Ensure that strategic professional development is happening for staff at all levels, including accessing outside training and planning for learning opportunities within teams and throughout the organization.
• Demonstrate strong analytical and decisive decision-making skills, effectively prioritizing and communicating key objectives and tactics to staff.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
The minimum qualifications required for entry into the classification are as follows:

Education and/or Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution AND seven years of progressive management responsibility, ultimately leading to a senior management position in a public pension fund, financial services organization, insurance company, or government agency.

OR

• Ten years of senior management experience overseeing budget, personnel, fiscal, and administrative functions AND demonstrated knowledge, skills, and abilities required to work effectively with public officials, organized groups, and the public at large.

Please click here for additional details about the Assistant CEO, External Operations classification.

SPECIAL NOTES, LICENSES, OR REQUIREMENTS:

• A valid California class C driver’s license or the ability to arrange necessary and timely transportation for field travel.
• May be required to use a personal vehicle.
• A complete background investigation is required; a felony or misdemeanor conviction may be a disqualifying factor from employment.
• Highly Desirable: Possession of a Certified Employee Benefit Specialist (CEBS) designation demonstrating advanced knowledge in employee benefits administration, retirement plan design, and strategic benefits management.

KEY COMPETENCIES:

• Inspire, develop and retain high-performing staff.
• Represent the Deputy CEO and CEO as needed and engage effectively and professionally with Board members as well as with internal and external stakeholders.
• Drive initiatives aligned with OCERS strategic and business plans.
• Communicate effectively in both oral and written formats with diverse audiences.
• Model OCERS’ values and commitment to excellence, innovation and integrity.
• Maintain accountability and focus on long-term strategic goals.
• Anticipate future challenges and proactively develop solutions.
• Set clear expectations for personal growth and team development.

STRATEGIC & TECHNOLOGICAL LEADERSHIP:

• Serve as a catalyst for digital transformation with Member Services and Disability departments.
• Identify and implement emerging technologies- including AI, ML and automation - to optimize operations.
• Develop and maintain a roadmap for modernizing systems and reporting capabilities within External Operations.
• Guide staff in adapting to new tools, data practices, and innovative service delivery models.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:
The following lists the knowledge, skills, and abilities that will eventually be necessary to perform the essential duties of the position.

Knowledge of:

• Principles of public sector leadership and pension system operations.
• Public relations theory, concepts, practices, and strategies.
• Participating employer personnel rules, practices, and procedures regarding the administration of a qualified pension plan.
• Fiscal, actuarial, and cost projection principles and procedures.
• Actuarial principles pertaining to retirement system funding.
• Budget development and administration.
• Supervision and training principles, practices, and techniques.
• Professional business acumen.
• Methods and techniques of research, statistical analysis, and report presentation.
• Computer applications and hardware related to the performance of the essential functions of the job.

Skills/Ability to:

• To be forward-thinking, with the ability to formulate and articulate a strategic vision for External Operations.
• Establish and maintain professional relationships with Board members, OCERS’ team members and stakeholders.
• Manage and appropriately handle complex political issues involving several competing variables.
• Plan, organize, integrate, and manage OCERS External Operations division.
• Prepare and present complex correspondence, reports, narratives, and fiscal documents for the Board of Retirement, executive staff, and managers so they are understood by all audience levels.
• Exhibit strong public speaking skills and the ability to present to a public board.
• Work with all personality types and encourage a team approach to resolving problems.
• Exhibit exemplary interpersonal skills and exercise sound judgment and professionalism in business matters.
• Perform job functions independently and in an ethical and objective manner.
• Adapt to change and navigate challenges while fostering a collaborative team environment.
• Use relevant software applications.
• Use an OCERS-approved means of transportation to travel to and from work sites may be required for some assignments.

PHYSICAL, MENTAL, AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:
The following is a description of the physical and mental abilities customarily required to perform the essential job functions of this position.

Physical and Mental Requirements:

• Speak and hear well enough to communicate clearly and understandably in person, over the telephone, and in small groups.
• Manual dexterity sufficient to use hands, arms, and shoulders repetitively to operate a telephone, keyboard, write, and calculator.
• Mental stamina to interact professionally with stakeholders.
• Vision sufficient to read fine print and a computer monitor.
• Independent body mobility, agility, and stamina to stand, walk, stoop, bend, and twist to access a standard office environment.
• Ability to sit for prolonged periods of time.
• Body strength sufficient to lift 15 pounds and carry files.

Environmental Conditions:

• The primary workplace is in an office environment, working with standard equipment.
• Peripheral office equipment generates a quiet to moderate noise level.
• Operates in an environment that includes elected officials, non-elected officials, government agencies, community interest groups, and the public in the development and coordination of OCERS affairs.
• Out-of-area travel may be required to attend professional conferences and meetings.

BENEFITS:
OCERS offers a flexible/hybrid work schedule plus a generous benefits package that includes:

• Participation in OCERS Defined Benefit Plan
• OCERS 401(a) Defined Contribution Plan: OCERS contributes an amount equal to 3% of your bi-weekly salary
• County of Orange 401(a) Defined Contribution Plan: OCERS contributes an amount equal to 4% of your bi-weekly salary
• Optional voluntary 457 Deferred Compensation Plan (consisting of voluntary contributions)
• Optional Benefit Plan (OBP) in the amount of $4,500 annually
• Health coverage is available, with eligible dependent coverage
• No cost PPO Dental and Vision for you and your dependents
• No cost short and long-term disability insurance plans
• No cost Life Insurance of $125,000
• Option to join a Dependent Care Reimbursement Account (DCRA)
• Option to join a Health Care Reimbursement Account (HCRA)
• Tuition Reimbursement up to $10,000 annually
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Annual Leave of 24.5 days per year, increases with longevity

RECRUITMENT PROCEDURE:
OCERS Human Resources Department will screen all applications and supplemental responses to identify qualified candidates. Applications submitted without completed supplemental responses will be disqualified from further consideration. After screening, the more qualified candidates will be referred to the next step in the recruitment process and notified of all further procedures applicable to their application status.

Application Rating (AAP)

(Refer/Non-Refer) Application materials will be rated by a panel of job knowledge experts for those qualifications most needed to perform the job duties. The more qualified candidates will be referred to the next step. All notifications regarding this recruitment will be sent via e-mail.

Spark Hire Interview

Referred candidates will complete a one-way pre-screening interview on the Spark Hire video interview platform. In this process, candidates will record their responses to a set of structured questions. Subject matter experts will then evaluate these video interviews to determine if candidates qualify for the next phase of the selection process.

Qualifications Appraisal Panel (QAP)

Candidates will be interviewed and rated by a panel of job knowledge experts. Each candidate's rating will be based on responses to a series of structured questions designed to elicit the candidate's qualifications for the job.

Based on OCERS' needs and the number of applications received, the selection procedures listed above may be modified, and all affected candidates will be notified.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

HOW TO APPLY:
Only online applications with the completed supplemental questions will be accepted.

E-mail is the primary form of notification during the recruitment process. Please ensure your correct e-mail address is on your application and only use one e-mail account.

Your application should highlight all areas in which you have developed expertise, matching your professional experience with the specific qualifications listed above.

You may apply online at the OCERS website: https://www.ocers.org/careers-ocers .

For specific information pertaining to this recruitment, please contact John Nguyen at (714) 569-4855 or email jtnguyen@ocers.org.

For this recruitment, you must attach a resume or email it to jtnguyen@ocers.org.

EMAIL NOTIFICATION:
Email is the primary form of notification during the recruitment process. Please ensure your correct email address is included in our application and use only one email account. NOTE: User accounts are established for one person only and should not be shared with another person. Multiple applications with multiple users may jeopardize your status in the recruitment process for any positions for which you apply. Candidates will be notified regarding their status as the recruitment proceeds via email through the GovernmentJobs.com site. Please check your email folders, including spam/junk folders, and/or accept emails ending with "governmentjobs.com" and "ocers.org." If your email address should change, please update your profile at www.governmentjobs.com .

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Click here for additional Frequently Asked Questions.

EEO INFORMATION

OCERS, as an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.

OCERS Executive Management Benefits

Executive Management employees enjoy a comprehensive selection of enhanced benefits, including:

• Retirement: Participation in the Orange County Employees Retirement System (OCERS), a defined benefit pension plan. Learn more about OCERS plans and pension benefits here: OCERS Active Member Information.
• Optional Benefit Plan (OBP): An annual amount of $4,500, which may be received in the form of lump sum payment (taxable) or other available benefit choices.
• OCERS 401(a) Plan: OCERS shall contribute an amount equal to 3% of bi-weekly salary to a 401(a) Plan administered by Wells Fargo.
• County 401(a) Plan: OCERS shall contribute an amount equal to *4% (*5% for CEO) of bi-weekly salary to a 401(a) Plan administered by Empower.
• Paid Leave:
  • 12 paid holidays per year
  • Accrued annual leave
• Health & Dependent Care Reimbursement Accounts: Flexible spending accounts to help cover eligible medical and dependent care expenses with pre-tax dollars.
• Dental Insurance: The County pays 100% of dental insurance premiums for employees and their eligible dependents.
• Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance: $125,000 regardless of age, with the option to purchase additional coverage including dependent coverage.
• Disability Insurance: Short-term and long-term disability insurance programs are provided at no cost to employees.
• 457 Defined Contribution Program: Voluntary retirement savings program with tax-deferred contributions.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Up to $10,000 maximum annually.

For a complete overview of our benefits, please visit the OCERS Benefits Page.

Closing Date/Time: 3/16/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• 

• County of Orange

• 714.834.5315

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